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Tag: WhatsApp

  • Why Meta-Owned WhatsApp Bans More Than 8.5 Million Accounts In India In September?; Know Reason

    Whatsapp Bans Indian Accounts: In a significant move, Meta-owned WhatsApp has imposed bans on numerous accounts in India, aiming to enhance user safety and combat the misuse of its platform. This action comes amid rising concerns over privacy and security, prompting the messaging giant to take a firm stand against abusive practices.

    To avoid such malicious actions, the instant messaging platform banned more than 8.5 million “bad” accounts in India in September for violating its policies. Between September 1 and September 30, the company banned 8,584,000 accounts, of which 1,658,000 were proactively banned before any reports from users, according to the social media platform’s monthly compliance report under the new IT Rules 2021.

    The popular mobile messaging platform, which has more than 600 million users in India, received 8,161 grievances from the country, and the records “actioned” were 97. The term “actioned” refers to complaints where WhatsApp took remedial action.

    WhatsApp also received two orders from the Grievance Appellate Committee in the country and complied with both, according to its monthly compliance report.

    “We will continue with transparency to our work and include information about our efforts in future reports,” said the company. It employs a team of engineers, data scientists, analysts, researchers, and experts in law enforcement, online safety, and technology developments to oversee these efforts.

    “We enable users to block contacts and to report problematic content and contacts to us from inside the app. We pay close attention to user feedback and engage with specialists in stemming misinformation, promoting cybersecurity, and preserving election integrity,” said WhatsApp.

    The abuse detection operates at three stages of an account’s lifestyle: at registration, during messaging, and in response to negative feedback, which we receive in the form of user reports and blocks.

    A team of analysts augments these systems to evaluate edge cases and help improve our effectiveness over time. Between August 1, 2024 and August 31, 2024, 8,458,000 WhatsApp accounts were banned, 1,661,000 of these accounts were proactively banned, before any reports from users.

    It also received 10,707 grievances from the country in August, and the records “actioned” were 93. (With IANS Inputs)

  • WhatsApp New Feature: Now Filter Chats With Customized Lists –Check How To Use It |

    New Delhi: Meta-owned WhatsApp on Thursday made it easier to organize messages filling up users’ inbox, which will help them keep track of conversations with family members, work colleagues, college friends and more.

    Earlier this year, the popular messaging platform introduced chat filters as a way to find messages faster.

    “We’ve had great feedback that they help you keep track of your chats, and we’re excited to have quickly evolved them into Lists,” said the social media company.

    How To Filter Chats With Customized Lists On WhatsApp

    With Lists, you can now filter your chats with custom categories of your choice. Whether that’s a list for family, work or your local neighborhood, Lists help you focus on the conversations that are most important, when you need them.

    “You can create and edit your lists easily by tapping the + in the filter bar at the top of your Chats tab, or edit by long-pressing a list,” said WhatsApp.

    Similar to your ‘favorites’, you can add both groups and one-on-one chats to a list, and any list you create will appear in the filter bar.

    “We’re rolling Lists out to users today, and will be available to everyone in the coming weeks. We look forward to expanding the functionality of Lists to help you focus on the people and conversations that matter most,” the company informed.

    By default, WhatsApp will still open to the “All” category, which displays all messages in chronological order.

    Notably, WhatsApp already had a way to look at unread messages through a filter in the search bar. But with the new filter bubbles on top of the chat screen, the option is easily available.

    Gmail users might find these filter bubbles familiar as the Google-owned email service introduced a similar feature in 2020 to make search simpler.

  • Traffic Challans On WhatsApp In Delhi: Pay Your Challan Soon Via UPI With Just One Click; How to Pay Challan Online |

    Traffic Challans On Whatsapp In Delhi: The process of paying challans for traffic violations is about to become as easy as making payments while shopping online on e-commerce platforms. The Delhi government has now issued a tender to provide WhatsApp Business and an application programming interface for traffic rule-related challan.

    So, Delhi’s transport department will soon start sending e-challan to commercial vehicle owners through WhatsApp. Currently, around 1,000-1,500 e-challans are issued daily.

    Following this, the challan for violating traffic rules will be automatically sent to the violator’s WhatsApp. This message will also contain a payment link. After this, users can use UPI or any other payment gateway to pay one or more challan directly from there.

    According to the tender document, the service provider needs to develop a system through which the Transport Department can make payments directly via WhatsApp. These messages will be sent in both Hindi and English.

    Furthermore, the new system will automate various notifications, including e-challan, payment reminders, due date alerts, payment receipts, and certificates. This automation ensures vehicle owners stay informed about pending dues, which is expected to improve compliance and reduce traffic violations.

    Payments Can Also Be Made Via UPI

    According to a report from the Times of India, an official familiar with the matter stated that this framework should be capable of sending messages in media formats such as photos, PDFs, and videos. This has been permitted by WhatsApp.

    In addition to the WhatsApp payment option, challan payments can also be made through popular UPI apps like Google Pay, BHIM, and other platforms.

    With the introduction of the new system, people will be able to pay their challan quickly and easily. The official further stated that after making a payment through one of these apps, a push notification will be sent every time a new challan is generated.

    Goal To Resolve Pending Traffic Challans

    This system will initially focus on traffic-related challan. The official said that since WhatsApp has a push message feature, it will continue to remind individuals that there is a pending challan.

    Currently, people use the government’s transport e-challan website to pay fines. Another official said, “Many vehicle owners do not receive SMS notifications for challan for weeks. Once our system is developed, this problem will be resolved.”

    How To Pay Traffic Challan Online

    Step 1: Open the website – echallan.parivahan.gov.

    Step 2: From the drop-down menu under ‘Check Online Service,’ select ‘Check Challan Status’

    Step 3: Enter the required information, including your vehicle details and the captcha code provided.

    Step 4: Click on the ‘Get Details’ button to view your challan status.

    Step 5: If there are any outstanding challans, click on the ‘Pay Now’ option.

    Step 6: Choose your preferred payment method to settle the challan fees and note down the transaction ID for future reference after completing the transaction.

  • What’s the Difference Between WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business? Here’s What You Should Choose |

    New Delhi: When you search for WhatsApp on the Google Play Store or Apple Story, you’ll notice two options: WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business. Many people get confused about which one to download. While both are messaging apps, they differ slightly in features and usage. Here’s a quick look at the differences between the two apps.

    WhatsApp

    – For Personal Use: WhatsApp is mainly designed for personal use, allowing you to chat, make calls, and share photos and videos with friends and family.

    – Limited Features: It doesn’t include special business features like catalogs or automated messaging.

    – One Account Per Number: You can only use one WhatsApp account per phone number.

    WhatsApp Business

    For Commercial Use: WhatsApp Business is designed especially for small businesses, allowing them to handle customer service, take orders, and promote their business.

    Business Features: It includes various features tailored for business needs, such as:

    Catalog: You can create a catalog of your products or services to easily showcase them to customers.

    Automatic Messages: Set up automated messages, like greetings, to respond to customers quickly.

    Labels: Organize your contacts with labels for easier management.

    Business Profile: Create a business profile that includes your business name, address, website, and more.

    You can use the same number for both WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business. However, they need to be on different devices.

    Which one is better for you?

    When choosing between the two, if you’re using WhatsApp for personal connections, regular WhatsApp should meet your needs. On the other hand, if you manage a small business and want to interact with customers more professionally, WhatsApp Business offers additional tools that could be highly beneficial.

  • WhatsApp Introduces New Privacy Feature To Add And Manage Contacts Across Multiple Devices; Details Here |

    WhatsApp New Feature: WhatsApp, the popular instant messaging platform owned by Meta, has launched a new feature that allows users to privately add and manage their contacts across multiple devices. Earlier, users could only add contacts on WhatsApp through their mobile devices by entering a phone number or scanning a QR code.

    Now, with this update, users can manage contacts on WhatsApp Web, Windows, and soon on other linked devices using their keyboards. This feature is particularly useful for individuals who access WhatsApp on multiple devices or prefer using it on a computer for personal or business communications.

    it’s true, you no longer have to reach for your phone add or edit your contacts from whichever linked device you’re on pic.twitter.com/AKtYTqVZRD — WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) October 22, 2024

    The platform is also launching a new feature that lets users save contacts directly within WhatsApp, separate from the device’s main contact list. These WhatsApp-only contacts will be automatically restored when users switch devices or if their phone is lost. This functionality is expected to expand to other linked devices in the future.

    Adding further, WhatsApp has also rolled out a new storage system, Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS), to securely store contact information, allowing users to restore contacts even if they lose their phone. The system uses Key Transparency, which ensures the authenticity of contacts and monitors any changes to identity keys.

    Furthermore, Meta is working on enhancing the personalization of Meta AI within WhatsApp. This feature will allow Meta AI to retain user-shared details, offering more personalized responses based on learned user preferences.

  • Want To Smooth Your Face On WhatsApp Video Calls? Here’s How To Activate Beauty Mode |

    New Delhi: WhatsApp is always working on new features to improve user experience and security. The latest update brings filters and background support to video calls which gives users more control over their video chats. These additions allow you to customize your video calls, making them more engaging and enjoyable.

    However, that’s not all—WhatsApp has also added a feature many will love: Beauty mode. This new addition is designed to improve your appearance during video calls. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Beauty mode, including how to enable it and more.

    What is WhatsApp’s Beauty mode for video calls?

    WhatsApp has introduced a new feature that smoothes out your facial features. It is similar to the beauty filters you find on smartphone cameras. This mode improves your appearance during video calls by reducing dark circles, blemishes, and other imperfections, helping you look your best.

    How to Activate WhatsApp Beauty Mode

    The Beauty mode is available on both Android and iOS. To use it, follow these simple steps:

    – Update the App: Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp from the Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS).

    – Start a Video Call: Open WhatsApp and begin a video call (individual or group).

    – Find the Icon: Look for a face mask-like icon on your video feed, next to the ‘low light mode’ option.

    – Enable Beauty Mode: Tap on the icon to activate the Beauty mode.

    – Enjoy the Smoothness: Once enabled, your face will appear smoother, with enhanced clarity.

    For an even better experience, you can combine this feature with the Blur background option.

  • Why Meta-owned WhatsApp Bans Over 80 Lakh Indian Accounts?; Find Out Reason Here |

    WhatsApp Accounts Ban In India: Meta-owned WhatsApp is one of the most popular instant messaging apps in India, with millions of users. However, its popularity has also attracted malicious activities and become a hub for bad actors including scammers who use the channel to exploit the app for fraudulent activities.

    To keep the platform safe, WhatsApp has banned more than 80 lakh Indian accounts in a bold move to curb the escalating issue of online scams, safeguarding its platform from malicious activity.

    Why WhatsApp Bans Over 80 Lakh Indian Accounts

    Involvement in illegal activities: Accounts involved in activities that breach local laws are quickly identified, flagged, and deactivated by WhatsApp.

    User complaints: When users report harassment, abuse, or inappropriate behavior, WhatsApp thoroughly investigates and takes necessary action to address the issue.

    Violation of terms of service: From spamming and bulk messaging to scams and spreading misinformation, accounts engaging in these activities face swift action from WhatsApp.

    WhatsApp’s Latest Transparency Report

    Meta-owned messaging platform banned 8,458,000 users in India during August 2024. The report, in compliance with Rule 4(1)(d) and Rule 3A(7) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 , highlights WhatsApp’s heightened efforts to monitor and restrict accounts violating its policies or engaging in illegal activities under Indian law.

    From August 1 to August 31, WhatsApp blocked 8,458,000 Indian accounts, of which 1,661,000 were proactively banned. These accounts were flagged and actioned by WhatsApp’s automated systems, which detect suspicious activities like bulk messaging or unusual patterns, often indicative of scams or abuse, even before any user complaints were filed.

    In terms of user reports, WhatsApp received 10,707 complaints through its grievance mechanism in August 2024. Out of these, the platform took action on 93 complaints. These reports, submitted via email and postal channels directed to the India Grievance Officer, were categorized under ban appeals, account support, safety concerns, and other user-related issues.

  • WhatsApp Rolls Out New Feature To Enhance Video Calling Experience For iOS, Android Users; Here’s How To Enable It? ,

    WhatsApp New Video Calling Feature: WhatsApp, an instant messaging platform, has introduced a new feature to enhance the video calling experience for its users. Now, the users will be able to use the Low-Light Mode option that makes the face in front of the camera enhance the brightness of the face and also surrounding environment is seen clearly to the viewers.

    The Low-Light mode is designed to improve video quality during calls in dimly lit settings. In testing, it noticeably boosts brightness, enhancing facial illumination and minimizing graininess that often affects video clarity in darker environments. Hence, your friends and family can see you better, no matter the lighting conditions.

    How To Enable Low Light Video Calling Mode On WhatsApp

    Step 1: Open WhatsApp.

    Step 2: Start a video call.

    Step 3: Expand your video feed to full screen.

    Step 4: Tap the ‘Bulb’ icon in the top right corner to enable Low-Light Mode.

    Step 5: To turn off the feature, tap the ‘Bulb’ icon again.

    The Low-Light Mode is available on both iOS and Android versions of WhatsApp. However, the feature is not supported on the Windows WhatsApp app, though users can still manually adjust brightness levels during video calls.

    It’s important to note that the Low-Light Mode must be activated for each individual call, as there is currently no option to keep it permanently enabled.

    Adding further, the Meta-owned platform WhatsApp is introducing new filters and color themes for video calling. These include options like Warm, Cool, Black And White, Light Leak, Dreamy, Prism Light, Fisheye, Vintage TV, and Frosted Glass.

    There are also Duo-tone Background options, which feature themes such as Blur, Living Room, Office, Café, Pebbles, Foodie, Smoosh, Beach, Sunset, Celebration, and Forest.

    Adding further, users can choose from 20 different color theme options to customize individual chats, making it easier to distinguish between personal, work, and group discussions.

  • WhatsApp Introduces New ‘Tagging’ Feature In Status Updates; Here’s How To Use It |

    WhatsApp New Feature: WhatsApp, an instant messaging app, has rolled out a new ‘Tagging’ feature which allows users to like status updates, make private mentions, and reshare status.

    The new ‘tagging feature’ aims to offer better engagement on the platform, according to the company. With this new feature, users can mention up to five individuals in each status and can privately tag someone without displaying their names. Those mentioned will receive a notification.

    Notably, these features are already available for Instagram Stories. Meta has now started rolling out these features for WhatsApp, which will be widely available in the coming days. According to the company, WhatsApp Status is the best way to stay connected with friends and family, and now we’re making it even better.

    To Tag Someone In WhatsApp Status These Things Needs To Be Done

    To tag someone in a WhatsApp Status, a few steps need to be followed. First, ensure that you are using the latest version of the WhatsApp app and have an active account. When tagging someone, it’s important to note that the tag is private, meaning only the person tagged will be aware of it. Others who view your status will not know that someone has been tagged.

    How To Tag Someone In WhatsApp Status On Android

    Step 1: Open the WhatsApp app on your smartphone.

    Step 2: Navigate to the “Status” tab located at the bottom or top of the screen.

    Step 3: Tap on the “My Status” icon to start creating a new status update.

    Step 4: In the text field, type the “@” symbol followed by the contact name you want to tag.

    Step 5: From the drop-down menu, select the contact to tag them in your status.

  • WhatsApp Rolls Out Status Likes, Private Mentions, And Resharing: Here’s How It Works |

    New Delhi: WhatsApp, the popular Meta-owned messaging platform has introduced a set of features of status updates which makes it easier for users to interact. You can now like someone’s status, reshare a status you’ve been mentioned in and even tag or mention others privately in your own updates. These changes aim to give users more ways to connect through status updates.

    People may sometimes miss important status updates, according to WhatsApp. To help with this, the platform encourages users to privately mention those closest to them. This is to ensure they see the update and can easily reshare with their own audience.

    As stated in WhatApp’s blog post, “Make sure those closest to you see your status, and let them reshare it easily with their audience, by privately mentioning them.” When someone is mentioned in a status update, they’ll be notified privately and the mention will not appear on the status itself.

    How can you like a status on WhatsApp?

    Status likes on WhatsApp are simple and quick to use. You can like someone’s status with just a single tap and the same goes for liking updates from your contacts. It’s an easy way to show appreciation for someone’s status without having to send a message.

    Are WhatsApp status likes visible to everyone?

    No, status likes on WhatsApp are completely private. Only the person whose status you liked will be able to see the like in their list of viewers, ensuring your engagement stays personal.

    These features are already available on Instagram stories and now being introduced to WhatsApp by meta. The rollout has begun and it will be available for users widely soon. WhatsApp also mentioned, “We’ll be bringing more features to Status and the Updates tab over the next few months to make it easier to stay closest to those who matter most.”